Layla Alter, LMSW
I am an EMDR-trained, psychodynamic therapist working with teens and women of all ages who are navigating identity, relationships, anxiety, and the lasting effects of trauma. My approach integrates EMDR, IFS, and somatic therapy to support healing and a deeper connection to yourself.
I'm especially drawn to supporting you as you grow into who you are at your core, separate from what society tells you to be, even when it looks like everyone around you has already figured it out (they haven't).
Modern life is built to pull you out of your body and into a screen. Therapy with me is a deliberate interruption of that.
I believe in the transformative power of having space to share and heal what's usually left unspoken. My approach is holistic, relational, and body-centered. Through somatic practices, inner child work, and guided imagery, we'll explore the patterns, images, and feelings that may not have words yet.
As an avid meditator trained in mindful self-compassion, I also draw on mindfulness, breathwork, and gentle restorative yoga to support nervous-system regulation and help you feel more grounded in yourself.
Alongside my therapy work, I am a social-emotional learning educator working with teens. My experience as a school social worker and educator has shaped my understanding of adolescent development, identity, creativity, and resilience. I've continued to explore these themes through research and presentations on embodiment and disembodiment in the digital age, including at Harvard's Graduate School of Education.
My style is warm, creative, and collaborative. If this resonates, I'd love to connect.
EMDR & embodied therapy for teens and women throughout New York
I offer therapy in person in Brooklyn and online.
Please book a free 30-minute consultation here or reach out:
Layla@layla-alter.com \ 917-426-1374
Fees: $150 / Sliding Scale
I am an out-of-network provider. I can provide a superbill upon request to support clients in seeking reimbursement from their insurance company, and I'm happy to help with any necessary paperwork or documentation.
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I am committed to ongoing professional development and regularly pursue advanced training in trauma-informed, evidence-based, and experiential approaches to psychotherapy.
EMDR Training — EMDR Institute (2026)
Restorative Yoga Teacher Certificate — YogaRenew (2026)
Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD): Evaluation and Treatment — Hudson Valley Professional Development (2026)
Expressive Arts: Attachment and the Invisible String — Hudson Valley Professional Development (2025)
Somatic Trauma Healing Summit: Advanced Methods in Body-Based Therapies — (2025)
Mindful Self-Compassion Intensive Training — Kripalu (2025)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Certificate — Dr. Chris Worfolk (2025)
Experiential Introduction to Trauma Treatment Modalities — Hudson Valley Professional Development (2024)
Clinical Applications of Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy: Step-by-Step Procedures for Healing Traumatic Wounds — (2024)
Crisis Counselor Training — Crime Victims Treatment Center (2020)
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Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety
Body Image
Self Esteem
Coping Skills
Depression
Education and Learning Disabilities
Emotional Regulation
Internet Addiction
Life Transitions
Peer Relationships
Relationship Issues
Sexual Abuse
Stress